The Long Game: Breeding Radiated Tortoises with Paul Rattay

In this episode of **Turtle Tea with TTPG**, host Wendy Montroy welcomes experienced chelonian keeper Paul Rattay for an in-depth conversation on breeding and caring for the Radiated Tortoise (*Astrochelys radiata*).While Radiated Tortoises are widely considered one of the most striking and desirable species in human care, successfully reproducing them requires immense patience, precise environmental cues, and long-term commitment. Paul breaks down his 20-year journey with the species, sharing the exact protocols, trial-and-error lessons, and practical strategies that led to his breeding success.Whether you are curious about the mechanics of egg diapause, managing aggressive male courtship, or setting up hatchling enclosures, this episode provides a thorough guide to modern Radiated Tortoise husbandry.Timestamps0:07 Radiated Tortoise Basics2:02 Maturity Takes Patience7:06 Genetics Shape the Pattern10:00 Seasonal Egg Laying11:39 Clutch Size and Frequency15:48 Egg Care and Diapause19:26 Incubation Temperature Window25:33 Hatchling Care28:44 Humidity and Soaking30:27 Growing to Adult Size31:28 Finding Breeding Stock35:31 Male Courtship Behavior38:22 Managing Multiple Males42:10 Breeding Advice and Timing44:08 Comparing Other Species47:44 Finding Expert HelpFrequently Asked Questions (Q&A)Q: How long does it take for a Radiated Tortoise to reach breeding age? A: Raising Radiated Tortoises from hatchlings is a long game. Males and females often take 12 to 16 years (or longer) to mature. Sex determination is difficult until they reach roughly 11 to 12 inches, though endoscopic sexing at an avian/exotic clinic can confirm sex earlier.Q: What is diapause, and why is it necessary for Radiated Tortoise eggs? A: Diapause is a mandatory cooling period that pauses embryonic development to simulate natural environmental seasons. After collection, eggs are kept at room temperature overnight, placed in a temperature-controlled cooling unit (around 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit) for 15 to 30 days, and then moved to an incubator set between 86 and 88 degrees Fahrenheit.Q: How do you care for new hatchlings and ensure smooth shell growth? A: Hatchlings should stay in the incubator until their yolk sac is fully absorbed and they begin moving around. Because young Radiateds flip over easily, house them in modest-sized hatchling tubs where they can be monitored. Provide routine soaks, maintain elevated humidity with covered enclosures, and avoid hot, dry ambient conditions to support high-domed, smooth shell development.Q: What are male Radiated Tortoise courtship behaviors like? A: Males can be intense during breeding introductions. Common behaviors include ramming, marching, and flipping females. Keepers should supervise introductions closely to ensure safety.About the Turtle & Tortoise Preservation Group (TTPG)The mission of the Turtle and Tortoise Preservation Group (TTPG) is to ensure survival of the world’s turtles and tortoises through captive breeding. The TTPG supports the private ownership of chelonians and recognizes the substantial role that the private sector has played in the captive breeding and conservation of turtles and tortoises.Website: https://www.ttpg.orgJoin TTPG or Donate: https://www.ttpg.org/membershipFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/TTPGGroupContact our guest, Paul RattayFacebook: Rattay Radiateds - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568025690064More about the showWebsite: https://www.turtletea.orgIf you enjoyed this episode please subscribe, and leave a review or comment to help more turtle enthusiasts find the show!